Philosophy 25A

This course is designed as an introduction to philosophical thinking
generally, and ancient philosophy in particular. Those new to
philosophy will learn the landscape by reading and writing about
knowledge, the nature of reality, psychology, and ethics as the Greeks
saw it. Those with experience in philosophy will see that the ancient
perspective is an excellent starting point not just for its historical
role in philosophy, but also for its contrast to many of our modern
instincts and at the same time for its relevance to ongoing
philosophical debates. We will get acquainted with the striking
differences between ancient and modern thinkers, and with the very
elements for which Socrates, Plato and Aristotle are considered the
founders of Western philosophy.